Embracing Uniqueness: 4th Annual Art Contest Winners Announced

Celebrating Uniqueness Through Art

Mitsubishi Pencil Corporation, headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, has partnered with the Japan Association for the Promotion of Independent Living for People with Disabilities (known as Paralym Art) to host the 4th Annual Art Contest. This year’s theme focused on expressing one's own uniqueness, a belief upheld by Mitsubishi Pencil that every individual is unique from birth.

Art Contest Theme

The theme for the contest was "Express Your Uniqueness". Artists were encouraged to depict their interpretation of what their uniqueness means through art.

Participation Details

A total of 149 artworks were submitted for consideration, showcasing a diverse range of self-expressions. The judging process involved Mitsubishi Pencil Group employees evaluating the submissions based on two main criteria: the creative expression of uniqueness and the rationale behind the artistic choices made.

Award Winners

Grand Prize (1 Winner)

1. Hajime Tajiri - 'Dandy Sakai'
Artist's Commentary:
"Life often doesn’t go as expected. I've faced many hardships and adversities. But in my artwork, I can envision things as I desire. This piece represents my reflections on life as I gaze outside, hoping for a day when I can always feel this way. I'll continue to paint!"

Excellence Awards (2 Winners)

2. Anemo - 'Moonlit Night with Susuki'
Artist's Commentary:
"I struggle with a disorder that affects my sleep and waking patterns. Since childhood, I've faced significant challenges in socializing. I find beauty in the night, which is where I thrive. I depicted the full moon rising in a dark night to convey my uniqueness. The leaves of susuki were a complex task, much like my mind, reflecting my struggles as well."

3. Ray - 'My Uniqueness'
Artist's Commentary:
"I initially drew a wolf when thinking about my uniqueness. However, I later realized that it is represented by 'waves'. This painting illustrates the challenges and calm moments of my life. I expressed how turbulent waves reflect my emotional state while calm waters signify peace."

POSCA Awards (5 Winners)

4. Yuiko - 'My Color'
Artist's Commentary:
"I love toucans! Their colors are vibrant, and each person perceives them differently. I express my colors freely, celebrating our differences while hoping that this respect leads us all to our unique identities."

5. Mikako Kamijo - 'This is My Uniqueness'
Artist's Commentary:
"I used colorful POSCA markers to paint my original characters, representing my uniqueness through art."

6. Ichigo - 'Slow Progress'
Artist's Commentary:
"To me, my uniqueness is being slow and a perfectionist, which can be a burden, yet it helps me in my art. I expressed myself as a turtle, illustrating a woman who accompanies me."

7. Tomoko - 'Draw Your Favorite Picture'
Artist's Commentary:
"Art should be enjoyable and come from the heart. I painted this to convey a message of freedom to express ourselves and to prevent anyone from feeling timid about their creativity."

8. Emilie - 'Footprints'
Artist's Commentary:
"From a young age, I’ve interacted with art. My journey has been filled with learning, creating, and growing, and my art reflects the happiness I’ve found along the way."

EMOTT Awards (5 Winners)

- Ray - 'Ennai Sen'
- Yukibou - 'Small Happiness: I Wanted to Meet You!'
- Tawa-chan - 'Blue World'
- Ma-tan - 'My Emotions'
- Yakken - 'The World in My Head'

uni Awards (20 Winners)

- Various artists contributed works that include "My Assertive Subconscious", "Gorge", and many more, showcasing a broad spectrum of imaginative expression.

For more details about the artworks and the artists’ comments, please visit the official Paralym Art website.

About Paralym Art

Paralym Art supports disabled artists by providing a platform to showcase their works and ensuring fair remuneration. Their goal is to facilitate the economic independence of disabled individuals through art while fostering social participation. As of June 2025, nearly 400 artists have registered to be part of this initiative.

Website Links

- Paralym Art Official Site: Paralym Art
- Mitsubishi Pencil Press Releases: Mitsubishi Pencil

The 4th Annual Art Contest exemplifies the creative spirit and vibrant stories behind every piece, celebrating diversity and the beauty of individuality.